Celebrating Rural Generalist Medicine recognition at RMA25
The RGPWA team at RMA25
On 21 September 2025, Rural Generalist Medicine was formally recognised as a new field of specialty practice within general practice – a landmark achievement that marks a new chapter in Australian rural healthcare. This recognition is the result of years of dedicated advocacy and collaboration among a wide range of stakeholders, united by a shared commitment to improving access to quality healthcare in rural and remote communities. This milestone not only acknowledges the critical and multifaceted role rural generalists play in the healthcare system, but also paves the way for greater support, visibility, and development within the field. It signals a promising future for rural generalism, with enhanced training pathways and career opportunities aimed at meeting the unique needs of rural populations. Both ACRRM and RACGP will continue to work closely with the Australian Medical Council to accredit their rural generalist fellowship programs as official qualifications.
Members of the RGPWA team celebrated this occasion at the Rural Medicine Australia 2025 (RMA25) conference, held at Crown Perth from Wednesday 22 to Saturday 26 October. The event brought together professionals and leaders in rural and remote medicine to share insights and innovations from across the country. RGPWA participated in a collaborative booth alongside the other jurisdictional rural generalist pathways, engaging with aspiring rural generalists and providing information about the newly recognised specialty, its career pathways, and the diverse opportunities it offers. RGPWA Director of Rural Generalist Training, Dr Vinod Pushpalingam, participated in a panel about rural training pathways, and some of our RGPWA trainees chaired or presented at some of the sessions.
The conference also served as a platform to honour the achievements of rural health champions and to foster continued growth and excellence in rural generalist practice. One of our own trainees, Dr Revathy Carnagarin, was presented with the 2025 Rural Health Research Award for her extensive work in academic research, including heart failure management in remote communities. Congratulations, Rev!
Please feel free to reach out to the team if you have any questions about Rural Generalist Medicine recognition.
